Trans Pride NI has returned with a spectacular 2025 festival, bringing a full programme of queer events to Belfast. With the programme kicking off on August 31, the trans community and their allies are coming together to celebrate, protest and organise.
For the past months, trans activists have been speaking out about how recent legal and political developments are impacting their lives. Last year, the Executive approved a permanent ban on puberty blockers for under-18s, prohibiting the supply of such drugs to minors.
While it was initially believed that this would only apply to the sale, supply or prescription of the medication, it now appears that even possession of puberty blockers could lead to prosecution in Northern Ireland, as reported by Belfast Live.
Moreover, the recent UK Supreme Court ruling on the definition of ‘woman’ in the Equality Act 2010 sparked legal uncertainty, public confusion, and a surge in demand for support services across Northern Ireland.
To fight back against these actions and increasing anti-trans rhetoric, Trans Pride NI has organised a series of events to invite the community to come together in celebration and protest. Find out more about this year’s programme below.
Queer Belfast Market
August 31 – 12-19 Bradbury Place
This wonderful market brought together trans and queer vendors to kick off the festival with some fabulous arts, crafts and more.
Laugh Hole x Trans Pride
September 5 – Paperxclips
This hilarious stand-up comedy night will treat the audience to an unmissable lineup featuring exclusively trans and non-binary comics.
Trans Pride NI Artist Alley
September 7 – Black Box
Get to the Artist Alley to shop for zines, prints, apparel and more, all while supporting trans and non-binary artists.
Trans Café
September 8 – Hustle
This special evening features a panel of trans and non-binary people who will talk about their own personal experiences and answer all of your questions.
Rapid HIV & Syphilis Testing Clinic
September 9 – Belfast LGBT Centre
At this event, anyone aged 18+ will be able to walk in for free rapid HIV and syphilis tests.
Trans Tea
September 10 – Foyle LGBTQ+ Centre
Creating a space for trans and non-binary people of all ages, this event invites community members to get a cuppa and some treats and have some lovely chats.
Divis & Black Mountain Walk
September 11 – Divis Road
For the more outdoorsy trans and queer folks, this “moderate to challenging” guided nature walk will take people through open heath and blanket bog.
Sad Dyke Poetry
September 12 – Paperxclips
This open-mic night calls on all queer and trans poets to come and share their work with the community.
Trans Pride NI Rally
September 13 – Writer’s Square
The annual Trans Pride NI rally is set to return to Writer’s Square in Belfast, featuring speeches and performances.
Trans Pride Official After-Party
September 13 – The Maverick
After the rally, it will be time to celebrate. The official after-party will kick off from 3pm at The Maverick, featuring fabulous performers and drag artists.
Shinjuku Boys Screening
September 13 – Queen’s Film Theatre
Alternatively, people will also be treated to a screening of Shinjuku Boys, a 1993 documentary exploring the lives of three non-binary or transgender men who work at a host club in Tokyo, Japan.
Trans Only Swimming
September 27 – Location available after registration
Later in the month, Trans Pride NI invites all trans, non-binary and intersex people to join a swimming lesson. To register, email [email protected]
For more details about this year’s Trans Pride NI festival, follow their socials.
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